Glossary: Psychedelic Medicine

Elder

A respected individual recognized by their community for wisdom, lived experience, cultural knowledge, and service rather than age alone. Elders often serve as teachers, advisors, and custodians of cultural traditions.

Embodiment

The experience of being consciously connected with one's body as an integral aspect of perception, emotion, identity, and healing.

Endocannabinoid

A naturally occurring lipid signaling molecule that activates cannabinoid receptors. The principal endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

Endocannabinoid System

A widespread neuromodulatory system consisting of cannabinoid receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids, and metabolic enzymes that regulate pain, mood, appetite, memory, immune function, and stress responses.

Entactogen

Literally "touching within"; emphasizes increased emotional awareness and self-connection.

Entourage Effect

The proposed synergistic interaction among cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals that may modify the therapeutic effects of cannabis beyond those of isolated constituents. Although widely discussed, the degree of clinical evidence remains under investigation.

Entropy (Entropic Brain)

A measure of the flexibility or variability of brain activity. Psychedelics are thought to increase neural entropy, allowing less constrained patterns of cognition and perception.

Esketamine

The S-enantiomer of ketamine administered as an intranasal medication under medical supervision. Esketamine is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior when used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.

Essential Oil

A concentrated volatile extract obtained from aromatic plants containing terpenes and other lipophilic compounds responsible for fragrance and biological activity.